Atlas, Yasir could have bans overturned

New squash president wants to move on.

KARACHI: The ban of Pakistan’s top two squash players – Aamir Atlas Khan and Yasir Butt – could be overturned if they issue a written apology to the Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF).

While the 39th AGM of the Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) unanimously elected COAS Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt as the federation’s president, it was also decided that the ban should be removed following an apology.

“The new president is ready to overturn the ban but both need to issue an apology,” a PSF official told The Express Tribune. “The ban can be removed in two weeks because the new chief wants to take Pakistan squash to new heights.”

Atlas, meanwhile, expressed his delight at the news, confirming that he was ready to apologise in order to settle the issue.

“If the PSF wants an apology, I am ready to give it in writing a hundred times,” said Atlas before adding that the removal will be beneficial for the country as well. “I should also clarify that I never underperformed as accused previously. Whatever was said against me was wrong. I was injured and that’s why I couldn’t play well. Even the federation was aware of my injury.”

The official added that Rafique wants Pakistan to host events at neutral venues.

“He gave us the example of our cricket team – if it can play abroad, why can’t the squash players. Our players need to play as many matches as they can. Dubai has emerged as a preferred venue and the officials were advised to go ahead with the plan.”

In recognition of their valuable contribution for promoting the game last year, the Punjab Squash Association was declared winner of the PSF Pride of Performance Trophy while Sindh Squash Association came second.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 28^th, 2012.